Celebrating 25 Years of Dedication: Mrs. Iris Brown’s Incredible Journey with Goodwill
For a quarter of a century, Mrs. Iris Brown has been the warm and welcoming face of Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana. As our Administrative Assistant and Receptionist, she has been much more than just the first point of contact—she has been a guiding hand, a listening ear and a source of kindness and encouragement for countless individuals who have walked through Goodwill’s doors.
Mrs. Iris’ journey with Goodwill began with a twist of fate. After 18 years as an administrative assistant at Tulane University, she wanted a position that allowed her to spend more time with her family. She started applying for jobs, spotting a listing in the newspaper and mailing her application to a P.O. Box. At the time, she had no idea she was applying to Goodwill. When she received a callback, she was surprised—like many, she had assumed Goodwill was just a thrift store. What she discovered was so much more: a mission-driven organization dedicated to helping people overcome barriers to employment and build better lives.
Reflecting on the last 25 years, Mrs. Iris has witnessed remarkable growth at Goodwill—from facility and technology improvements to the countless lives transformed through the organization’s services. However, her most memorable moments come from seeing firsthand how Goodwill changes lives.
One story that stands out is of a father and son who moved to New Orleans from Texas. When they arrived, they were homeless and in need of assistance. The father turned to Goodwill, where he received help with clothing, food, gas for his car and—most importantly—employment support. Months later, he returned to Goodwill, but this time, it wasn’t for help. It was to say thank you. He had found stable employment, secured an apartment and enrolled his son in school.
“It was great to see him come to Goodwill on a mission to obtain a better life and then see him accomplish that mission,” Mrs. Iris recalls.
Her role extends beyond administrative duties. She has also been a compassionate listener for many. “I’ve seen and heard a lot,” she says with a knowing smile. “It’s definitely been an experience.”
Through it all, she believes her time at Goodwill has made her more empathetic and given her a sense of purpose.
As she looks toward the future, Mrs. Iris knows that when the time comes for retirement, she will leave with pride, knowing she made a difference.
Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana is honored to celebrate Mrs. Iris Brown’s 25 years of dedication, kindness and unwavering commitment to our mission. Thank you, Mrs. Iris, for everything you have done and continue to do to make Goodwill a place of hope and opportunity for so many.